Definition

Noun: - Impudent or insolent reply: Disrespectful or rude speech directed back at someone in authority, often in a defiant manner.

Usage

"Back talk" is used as a non-count noun to describe the act of speaking rudely to someone, especially a parent, teacher, or supervisor, after being criticized or given an instruction. It implies a lack of respect and defiance.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The teacher will not tolerate any back talk in her classroom.
  • He got in trouble for his constant back talk to the coach.

Advanced Usage

• "to give (someone) back talk": To speak insolently to a specific person.
  • If you give your mother any more back talk, you'll be grounded.

Variants and Related Words

• Backtalk (noun): A common alternative spelling of "back talk".
  • His backtalk earned him a detention.

Synonyms

• Sass: Impudent, lively talk; cheek.
• Lip: Insolent talk.
• Mouth: Impudent or disrespectful speech.
• Insolence: The quality of being insultingly disrespectful.

Related Idioms

• Don't give me any...: A stern warning phrase used to stop someone's impudent speech before it starts. It is commonly completed with words like "back talk," "sass," or "lip."
  • Don't give me any back talk; just do as you're told.

Noun

1. an impudent or insolent rejoinder
   • don't give me any of your sass